Unlocking Vietnam’s renewable energy future: Opportunities and challenges under PDP8

The Philippines wants to become a regional data centre hub, but high power prices, coal-heavy electricity, grid constraints and climate risks are testing that vision. Analysts say data centres could grow fast, yet competitiveness will depend on how quickly renewables, grid upgrades, permitting reforms and climate-resilient infrastructure actually materialise on the ground.

Vietnam’s industry ministry has proposed raising the cap on surplus rooftop solar sold to the grid from 20% to 50%, with payments linked to average market prices but below ground-mounted solar tariffs. The draft also allows surplus from public buildings and waives caps in off-grid mountainous, border, and island areas.

Southeast Asia’s 2025 saw deadly climate-driven floods, stalled fossil fuel phase-out, and a mining boom for transition minerals that is polluting rivers and destroying forests. Deforestation slowed but remains high, while wildlife faces habitat loss and thriving illegal trade. Community-led conservation offers pockets of hope amid deepening ecological regional risks.

Malaysia has launched ASEAN’s first EV Battery Passport Standard, mandating full lifecycle transparency to improve recycling, support decarbonization goals, and build a circular battery economy. The policy is expected to boost EV adoption and strengthen Malaysia’s competitiveness in the regional green economy.